Offered by Sagirah Shahid through The Loft Literary Center

In this class, we will explore the art of writing and reciting occasional poetry. Together we’ll familiarize ourselves with occasional poems across generations and cultures. We’ll learn practical tools and strategies to generate our own occasional poems. We’ll also gain confidence and learn how to improve our public recitation of these poems.

This class is part of a series of classes that cover the issues and traditions of writers of color and Indigenous writers and is intended for writers of color and Indigenous writers to work on their craft in a space that centers them and their work. We ask all participants to be cognizant of that core value. Minnesota human rights laws prevent the exclusion of anyone based on their identity. But if you are not a writer of color or Indigenous writer, please be mindful of the space and energy you take up in a class intended to uplift traditionally marginalized and silenced communities. Anyone being disruptive may be asked to leave.

The class is offered on a pay what you can basis with the suggested fee of $40 ($36 for Loft members). Students may select the "pay what you can" option and enter any amount, including $0. Wednesday, May 4th's session is from 6:30–8:30 p.m. CDT, and Saturday, May 14th's session is from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. CDT.

SAGIRAH SHAHID is a Black American Muslim poet, arts educator, and performing artist from Minneapolis, MN. She is a recipient of awards, fellowship, and residencies from the Loft Literary Center, Minnesota Center for Book Arts, Twin Cities Media Alliance, Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art and Muslim